Hartford Athletic Signs Jamaican Defender For 2024 USL Championship Season

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News Americas, HARTFORD, CT, Mon. Jan. 8, 2023: Hartford Athletic has officially announced the signing of Jamaican Reggae Boyz defender Jordan Scarlett for the upcoming 2024 United Soccer League Championship, commencing March 9 in the United States. The 28-year-old defender is set to join the Connecticut-based club, subject to approval from the league and federation. His move follows a stint with Louisville City FC in 2023, which was prematurely ended by a knee injury after just three appearances.

Scarlett is the third Jamaican player Hartford Athletic has acquired this year, following the signings of Deshane Beckford and Romario Williams from Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC. These new additions, including Scarlett, enhance the club’s Caribbean presence, joining compatriot Andre Lewis and Trinidad & Tobago’s Tristan Hodge.

Expressing his enthusiasm on the club’s website, Scarlett mentioned, “I am genuinely appreciative to be back playing the game that holds my heart.” Having grown up in New York, he views signing with Hartford as a homecoming and is excited to play in front of Hartford’s passionate fan base. He looks forward to contributing to the talented and exciting team at Hartford Athletic.

Scarlett, a native of Jamaica who grew up in the Bronx, attended Iona University and was selected by the New York Red Bulls in the 2017 Major League Soccer SuperDraft. He played his first three professional seasons with the New York Red Bulls II from 2017 to 2019. His USL Championship career is notable, with 157 appearances including time with the Red Bulls and Tampa Bay Rowdies, where he was a defensive leader and helped them reach the Eastern Conference final in each of his three seasons from 2020 to 2022.

Hartford’s head coach and general manager, Brendan Burke, praised Scarlett on the club’s website, highlighting his aggressive defending, aerial prowess, and valuable postseason experience. Burke expressed excitement about Scarlett driving the core group of defenders in the upcoming season.

Scarlett debuted internationally in June 2022 in a match against Mexico in the CONCACAF Nations League, representing the Reggae Boyz.

U.S. Defense Official For Guyana

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News Americas, GEORGETOWN, Guyana, Mon. Jan. 8, 2024: Daniel P. Erikson, the U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for the Western Hemisphere, was set to arrive in Guyana today, January 8th.

Daniel P. Erikson, U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense,

He will be in the South American CARICOM country until tomorrow, Jan. 9th. Erikson, who oversees U.S. defense and security policy for a 34-nation region including Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and South and Central America, is undertaking this journey to reinforce the United States’ commitment to its defense and security alliance with Guyana, a key factor in regional stability.

During his visit, Erikson will engage in discussions with the Government of Guyana, the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), and leaders of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM). These talks aim to enhance the U.S. defense and security partnership with Guyana and its regional allies. Marking his first international trip in 2024, Erikson’s visit highlights the significance of the growing bilateral defense and security relationship, emphasizing both immediate military collaborations and long-term advancements in Guyana’s defense sector.

This visit is part of the United States’ broader strategy to fortify global alliances and partnerships, focusing on improving interoperability, expanding information exchange, and orchestrating complex joint and combined exercises with its international allies, the US Embassy said in a statement.

Jamaica’s Renowned Dance Ensemble Returns To NYC

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Mon. Jan. 8, 2024: L’ACADCO, Jamaica’s Leading Contemporary Dance Company, makes a much-anticipated comeback to New York City with a gala performance on January 11th.

This marks their first appearance in the city in two decades. The event, featuring a special performance at the Gerald W. Lynch Theater at John Jay College, will be under the patronage of the Consul General of Jamaica to New York, Alsion Roach-Wilson and aims to celebrate Dr. Una S.T. Clarke’s contributions, aligning with the theme: Building Bridges Through The Arts.

A portion of the proceeds will benefit the New-York-based Jamaican charity Children of Jamaica Outreach, (COJO) Inc. Tickets are available at touchstonelink.com/lacadco.

The event will highlight the exceptional talent and agility of L’Acadco’s dancers, offering both long-time supporters and newcomers a mesmerizing experience. The performance will feature contemporary pieces and traditional Caribbean dance forms, choreographed by Jessica Shaw, Orville McFarlane, and L’Antoinette Stines, the company’s Artistic Director. Notably, Dr. Stines’ acclaimed works, Satta and Honfour, will be part of the evening’s repertoire.

It will be further enhanced by the presence of special guest Amma D. McKen, a renowned Yoruba Orisha Singer and Priestess of Yemonja. A Brooklyn native, McKen has been immersed in Yoruba sacred music since the age of 14 and holds the prestigious title of Akpon. She has the distinction of being the first African American woman to produce a musical recording of these traditional songs, “Alaako Oso: Owner of the Songs is Eloquent.”

L’Acadco’s roots trace back to 1978 when Dr. L’Antoinette Stines founded Miami’s first Black dance company. After returning to Jamaica in 1982, Dr. Stines and her company have become influential ambassadors of Jamaican and Caribbean culture. Dr. Stines developed L’Antech, a unique Caribbean dance technique, blending Classical Ballet with Jamaican and Caribbean dance styles. This innovative approach has been integral to L’Acadco’s expression of the region’s vibrant culture and heritage.

Celebrated as Jamaica’s leading contemporary dance company, L’ACADCO’s members hail from across the Caribbean, including Barbados, the Bahamas, Grenada, Bermuda, Cuba, Guyana, Suriname, and Trinidad & Tobago. Since its inception, the company has stood as a dynamic representative and advocate of Caribbean culture and dance. For more information, visit lacadco.com.

Caribbean Travel Updates And Deals

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Thurs. Jan. 4, 2024: Here are the top Caribbean travel news and deals this week in 60 seconds.

Canada is warning its nationals to exercise a high degree of caution if travelling to or in Trinidad and Tobago due to violent crime there.

Neil Patrick Harris was among the Celebs helping to ring in the New Year at AtlantisParadise Island on December 31, 2023 in Nassau, Bahamas.

A Florida teen traveling alone on Frontier Airlines from Tampa to Cleveland “mistakenly boarded a different flight” and wound up in Puerto Rico. Logan Lose, 16, waved goodbye to his family at Tampa International Airport on Dec. 22 and headed toward his first solo flight to visit his mom in Ohio for the holidays, WFLA reported. The teen saw other passengers boarding and got in line, but the flight to Cleveland and another to San Juan departed from the same gate — and the one to the Caribbean island took off first, Frontier rep Jennifer de la Cruz told the outlet.

Plan to be in Anguilla this year for the Anguilla Culinary Experience in May. Online ticketing is now open for the annual epicurean festival that is set from Thursday, May 23rd through Sunday, May 26th, 2024 at the island’s top resorts, restaurants and villas. Get tickets at AnguillaCulinaryExperience.

JetBlue airlines has a winter a Caribbean escape to Aruba at the super affordableprice of just $124 one-way from New York and New Ark. Book at https://www.jetblue.com/destinations/aruba-flights.

And the Buccaneer Beach & Golf Resort in St. Croix is offering an exclusive post-holiday deal this January. Travelers will receive a $250 resort credit. The offer is valid for stays of five (5) nights or more in a Great House Ocean View category or higher. The credit can be applied toward enhancing experiences at The Buccaneer, including dining, golf, tennis or spa services but travelers must book between Jan. 1 and 30, 2024, for travel between Jan. 4 and Dec. 21, 2024. Use code JAN250 when making reservations.

Soca Artist Ricardo Drue’s Funeral Set for January 9th

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Weds. Jan. 3, 2023: The funeral for renowned soca artist Ricardo Drue is scheduled for January 9th. Nicola Barriteau, Drue’s mother, announced the arrangements in a statement yesterday.

The ceremony will begin at 1 pm at the Holy Family Cathedral in Antigua, Drue’s birthplace.

Ricardo Drue is no more.

In her first public statement since Drue’s unexpected passing last month, Barriteau expressed gratitude for the public’s support and love towards her family during this challenging time.

“There are no words at this time to express the overwhelming love and support given as the family continues to process and come to terms with the passing of our beloved son Ricardo Robert Barriteau Drue,” she said.

She acknowledged the difficulty of this period, stating, “We are thankful for the respect shown during this extremely difficult time. Whilst we all wish the hands of time could be rewound, the harshest reality of life is unfortunately death and as much as the family would give anything to have him with us in the physical, the ultimate acknowledgement is the Almighty is in full control.”

Drue, known for hits like “Vagabond” and “Toxic Love,” passed away on December 12th, 2023, at the age of 38. The cause of his death has not been disclosed.

Virgin Islander Now Vice Mayor Of South Florida City

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News Americas, FORT LAUDERDALE, FL, Weds, Jan 3, 2024: A Virgin Islander City of Tamarac Commissioner has been unanimously voted into the post of vice mayor of the South Florida City.

Morey-Wright is the new Vice Mayor of Tamarac.

The Tamarac District 2 Commissioner, Morey Wright, born in the Virgin Islands to a Virgin Islander mother and a Jamaican father, will serve as vice mayor for a one-year term, with the responsibility of acting as mayor in the mayor’s absence. 

Wright is a University of Florida alumnus who graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. He also earned two master’s degrees in business and government from Johns Hopkins University.

He was elected to the Tamarac City Commission in November 2022. During his time in office, he has represented the City of Tamarac as a voting delegate for the 97th Annual Florida League of Cities Conference. Wright also served as chair of the auditor selection committee.

“I’m honored to be appointed as Tamarac’s Vice Mayor,” said Wright. “I am excited to continue to work with the Commission, residents and community members to develop meaningful programs and initiatives that will positively impact Tamarac and ensure that our City remains a vibrant and thriving community for all.”

Professionally, Wright is an executive at a South Florida-based e-commerce company. He also owns a small business that consults on digital technology and marketing.

Virgin Islander Now Vice Mayor Of South Florida City

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News Americas, FORT LAUDERDALE, FL, Weds, Jan 3, 2024: A Virgin Islander City of Tamarac Commissioner has been unanimously voted into the post of vice mayor of the South Florida City.

Morey-Wright is the new Vice Mayor of Tamarac.

The Tamarac District 2 Commissioner, Morey Wright, born in the Virgin Islands to a Virgin Islander mother and a Jamaican father, will serve as vice mayor for a one-year term, with the responsibility of acting as mayor in the mayor’s absence. 

Wright is a University of Florida alumnus who graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. He also earned two master’s degrees in business and government from Johns Hopkins University.

He was elected to the Tamarac City Commission in November 2022. During his time in office, he has represented the City of Tamarac as a voting delegate for the 97th Annual Florida League of Cities Conference. Wright also served as chair of the auditor selection committee.

“I’m honored to be appointed as Tamarac’s Vice Mayor,” said Wright. “I am excited to continue to work with the Commission, residents and community members to develop meaningful programs and initiatives that will positively impact Tamarac and ensure that our City remains a vibrant and thriving community for all.”

Professionally, Wright is an executive at a South Florida-based e-commerce company. He also owns a small business that consults on digital technology and marketing.

Pioneering Job Career Program Launched By UAE And Saudi Arabia Welcomes Global Talent, Including Caribbean Nations

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News Americas, Dubai, UAE, Weds. January 3rd 2024: Vanguard MENA, a prominent private equity firm based in the Middle East, has unveiled the Gulf Career Program following the Global Labor Market Conference 2023 held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al Khateeb emphasized the Kingdom’s commitment to generating 250,000 job opportunities for Expo 2030 and an additional one million jobs by that year during the conference.

Recognized by Vanguard MENA’s Managing Partner Jassim Al-Thani as a pivotal catalyst for regional growth, the Gulf Career Program focuses on the dynamic economies of the UAE and Saudi Arabia. With a global reach extending to 56 countries and a target of 100,000 participants, the program aims to stimulate international career development and attract talent to the vibrant Gulf region. Aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and the UAE Economic Vision 2030, it underscores Vanguard MENA’s dedication to driving innovation and progress.

Supported by a substantial $10 million USD fund allocated for its development, the Gulf Career Program will back localized training initiatives, offer financial aid to selected regions, and strengthen its commitment to empowering the entire region. Participants will gain access to e-training platforms, global career seminars, and career mentorship.

Launching registration in stages, the program will progressively debut across diverse regions on www.gulfcareerprogram.com. This rollout encompasses North and South America, Europe, Africa, Asia, and The Caribbean, featuring tailored seminars and interviews. Serving as a vital link connecting global talent with opportunities in the GCC region, the initiative capitalizes on the unique strengths of Saudi Arabia and the UAE. Its objective is to establish a vibrant ecosystem, enabling professionals worldwide to actively contribute and thrive within the flourishing Gulf economies.

The Caribbean region takes the lead in open registration until February 15th, followed by scheduled regional interviews and career seminars locally hosted from March 12th. Individuals eager to pursue their ideal job and relocate to the Gulf region can register online at www.gulfcareerprogram.com.

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About Vanguard MENA

Vanguard LLC (MENA) is a premier private equity firm, recognized for its formidable leadership within the burgeoning Middle Eastern market. With assets under management reaching $124 billion, we are positioned at the forefront of driving growth and innovation in this dynamic region. Operating out of Dubai, United Arab Emirates, our strategic presence enhances our ability to capitalize on the high-growth opportunities that the Middle East offers. www.vanguardmena.com       

West Indies Are Champions Again

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News Americas, PORT-OF-SPAIN, Trinidad, Fri. Dec. 22, 2023: In just 48 hours, the narrative of the cricket series underwent a dramatic transformation. From Tuesday’s electrifying, record-shattering display, the stage shifted to a tense, low-scoring thriller on the same ground, culminating in a nail-biting victory for West Indies on Thursday night.

Jason Holder (C) and Shai Hope (R) of the West Indies celebrate winning the 5th T20I between the West Indies and England at Brian Lara Cricket Academy Stadium in Tarouba, Trinidad and Tobago, on December 21, 2023. (Photo by RANDY BROOKS/AFP via Getty Images)

Shai Hope emerged as the hero, striking a decisive six in an unexpected yet spectacular fashion, with four balls to spare. His masterful shot, clearing the ropes at point off the second delivery of the final over, clinched a four-wicket win for West Indies against England in a gripping finish.

This series, marked by explosive batting displays and soaring run rates, saw a surprising twist in England’s fortunes midway through. Ultimately, it concluded with a 3-2 series victory for West Indies, reinforcing their dominance over England in their home conditions across various formats for the past half-decade, crowning them as champions once again.

Nicholas Pooran, Rovman Powell and Akeal Hosein of West Indies pose for a photo with the champion’s trophy after the 5th T20 International between the West Indies and England at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy on December 21, 2023 in Tarouba, Trinidad And Tobago. (Photo by Ashley Allen/Getty Images)

The atmosphere at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy was electric, with Shai Hope’s batting brilliance pivotal in securing the five-match T20 International Series for West Indies.

Choosing to field first, West Indies successfully contained England to a modest 132. The pursuit of 133 was a rollercoaster, as the home side went from a solid 95-3 in the 15th over to a precarious 123-6 with just two overs left, bringing the series decider to an edge-of-the-seat climax.

West Indies players pose for a photo with the winner’s trophy during the 5th T20 International between the West Indies and England at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy on December 21, 2023 in Tarouba, Trinidad And Tobago. (Photo by Ashley Allen/Getty Images)

In the pressure-cooker of the final over, delivered by Sam Curran, West Indies required nine runs for victory. They kicked off with three runs off the first ball, courtesy of Jason Holder’s edge to deep square. Hope then skillfully relieved the pressure, slicing the next delivery – a wide, full-length ball – for an impressive six, completing his innings with a crucial unbeaten 43 from 43 balls, and propelling West Indies to a 3-2 series triumph.

Rovman Powell, the West Indies captain, lauded Hope’s crucial role, acknowledging his importance on the challenging pitch. He noted that Hope’s ability to patiently accumulate runs was a key strategy for the team’s batting approach.

Contributing significantly to the win were Sherfane Rutherford, with a vital 30 off 24 balls, and opener Johnson Charles, who made a quickfire 27 from 22 balls in his first game of the series.

The victory was also a testament to some exceptional bowling. Gudakesh Motie, playing in only his fifth match, earned the Man-of-the-Match award with a career-best performance. His remarkable spell of 4 overs, 34 runs, and 3 wickets was integral in dismantling England’s lineup, including the dismissals of Phil Salt, Liam Livingstone, and Harry Brook. Akeal Hosein, another left-arm spinner, thrived in his home conditions, finishing with 4 overs, 20 runs, and 2 wickets, claiming Will Jacks and Moeen Ali.

Reflecting on the contrasting nature of the series, England’s Reece Topley acknowledged the phenomenal cricket displayed by both teams. He expressed enthusiasm for playing in what was effectively a final, underlining the aspiration to secure series victories for England.

West Indies notched their third T20I Series win of the year, following victories over South Africa in Johannesburg and India in Fort Lauderdale.

Caribbean Travel Updates And Deals

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Thurs. Dec. 21, 2023: Here are the top Caribbean travel news and deals this week in 60 seconds.

Canada is warning nationals to avoid all travel to Haiti due to the threat posed by kidnappings, gang violence and the potential for civil unrest throughout the country.

The Canadian government is also warning nationals to Exercise a high degree of caution If travelling to or in the Bahamas due to high rates of crime, especially in Freeport​and Nassau.

A cruise ship passenger who got lost while hiking in Grenada’s rainforest on Monday 18th December 2023 have been found alive but with bruises caused by her ordeal of spending two nights in the Grand Etang Forest reserve area as she struggled to find her way out. 51 year old Heyse Celine was a passenger of the Costa Fortuna who went to Grand Etang and got lost in the forest reserve while searching for a waterfall.

Alaska Airlines is now flying nonstop from both Los Angeles and Seattle to Nassau, The Bahamas. The Los Angeles-Nassau flights are operating four times each week for the peak season. The Seattle-Nassau flights are operating three times per week for the same period.

The Rolling Stones now have their own Caribbean rum. “Crossfire Hurricane” is inspired by the opening lyrics from their hit 1968 song “Jumpin’ Jack Flash.” It is a premium blend of rums from Jamaica, Barbados and the Dominican Republic, aged for five years in charred oak barrels.

Beaches Resort is now offering deals from USD 269 per night for its Ocho Rios property. Check it out now

Meanwhile, Ring In The New year In The Dominican Republic from January 30th​to Feb 2 with a hotel and Flight Deal from Fort Lauderdale, FL. Book now